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E L E M E N T S > |
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S T U P A C O M P O N E N T S 
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SPHERE = WATER + DHAMMA + SAMADHI A sphere is the most complex geometric form. It can be seen as the entire ‘shell’ of the universe; undivided and complete. What we actually see when we look at a stupa is a hemisphere which presents the same idea of wholeness – but experientially, from the perspective of human limitations. Whereas the sphere is the entire universe, the hemisphere is the sky-dome that we actually experience, that we live under. It is the realm of gods and men. The sphere can be likened to both a water-bubble and an egg. Both are symbols of fertility and life potential; both a medium in which the seed (of truth) can find nourishment. The Buddha’s teaching is about this life; this body and mind, this earth perspective. It is about moving toward maturity, growing-up. It is not about things that I can only imagine (the vast universe, heaven, gods etc.), things ‘out there’ but is very much about what is right here, what I am experiencing as a human being. This is nature, my own human nature. This teaching is known in Pali as the ‘dhamma’. It is an investigation of the laws of nature. It leads each of us to ask the question: ‘What is my true nature?’ |
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THE DHAMMA The teaching of the Buddha: the Dhamma, is a practical guide which when followed unifies and holds together an otherwise often scattered mind. It is an expression of the Truth – of the way things are. Ultimate Truth is singular, it is whole and complete throughout the universe. Like water it is pure and untainted, it fits any container, it is consistent (in the beginning, middle and end), it flows, it is life giving. |
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